Perfectly prepared catch of the day

How to grill salmon perfectly

This 4th of July you might be thinking of grilling burgers and hot dogs or chicken and steaks, but let’s not forget the healthy fish, which is grilled salmon. Salmon is great for grilling because it can withstand the heat. Let’s delve deeper into the world of grilled salmon.

What are the pros and cons of grilling salmon?

Grilling salmon is a popular cooking method that can result in a delicious and healthy meal. However, like any cooking method, grilling salmon has its pros and cons. Here are some of the main pros and cons:

Advantages:

1. Flavor: Grilling salmon can give the fish a smoky, charred flavor that’s difficult to achieve with other cooking methods.
2. Health Benefits: Grilling salmon is a healthy cooking method because it allows the fat to drain off the fish, resulting in lower calorie and fat content. Salmon is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health.
3. Quick Cooking: Grilling salmon is a quick cooking method, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impromptu meals.
4. Versatile: Grilled salmon can be served with a variety of side dishes and sauces, making it a versatile and adaptable meal.

Disadvantages:

1. Danger of overcooking: Salmon can easily overcook on the grill, resulting in a dry, chewy texture. It’s important to carefully monitor the cooking time to ensure the fish is cooked through but not overcooked.
2. Sticking Hazard: Salmon can stick to the cooking grate, especially if the skin is left on. It is important to oil the cooking grates well before grilling to prevent sticking.
3. Flaming: Grilling can result in flaming, which can cause the salmon to burn or char. To prevent this, it’s important to keep a close eye on the grill and move the salmon away from hot spots if necessary.
4. Environmental Concerns: Grilling can produce smoke, pollute the air, and harm the environment. It’s important to grill responsibly and choose sustainable seafood to reduce your environmental impact.

Grilling salmon can be a delicious and healthy way to prepare this nutritious fish. Still, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides and take steps to minimize them. With careful preparation and attention, you can enjoy salmon grilled to perfection every time.

Should you grill salmon with or without the skin?

Grilling salmon with or without the skin is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few factors to consider when making the decision.

Grilling salmon with skin can help prevent the fish from overcooking and sticking to the grill. Skin also contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids that can benefit your health. However, some people prefer to remove the skin before grilling, finding it unappetizing or difficult to eat.

Grilling skinless salmon makes it easier to flavor the fish and gives it a more even texture. Without the skin, however, the fish can be more prone to overcooking or falling apart on the grill.

Ultimately, grilling salmon with or without the skin depends on your preference and recipe. If you are grilling salmon fillets and want to serve them as is, leaving the skin on can be a good choice. However, if you plan to use the salmon in a recipe where the skin is not desirable, such as a salad or sandwich, it may be better to remove it before grilling.

Basic steps for grilled salmon.

Here are some basic techniques for grilling salmon:

1. Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure the grill is hot enough to sear the salmon and leave grill marks.
2. Oil the cooking grates: To prevent the salmon from sticking to the grill, brush the grates with oil or use non-stick cooking spray.
3. Season the salmon: Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings like herbs or spices. You can also marinate the salmon beforehand to give it more flavor.
4. Place the Salmon on the Grill: If leaving the skin on, place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the grill. Let the salmon cook on the first side, 4-6 minutes, until grill marks appear and the skin is crisp.
5. Flip the salmon: Use a spatula to gently flip the salmon. If the skin is still stuck, gently pry it off the grill grate. Cook the salmon on the second side for an additional 3-5 minutes until cooked through and easily flaked with a fork.
6. Check doneness: The salmon is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the fillet.
7. Remove from the Grill: Once the salmon is fully cooked, remove it from the grill with a spatula. Leave to rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve and enjoy: Grilled salmon can be served with various side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice or salad. Drizzle with lemon juice or your favorite sauce for extra flavor.
9. Start with fresh salmon: the fresher the salmon, the better it tastes. Look for salmon that is firm, shiny, and has a mild odor.
10. Use Quality Ingredients: Use quality ingredients, including fresh herbs, spices, and seasonings. This helps bring out the salmon’s natural flavors.
11. Don’t overcook the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked salmon can become dry and tough. It’s better to undercook the salmon a little and let it rest for a few minutes before serving, as it will continue to cook while it rests.
12. Use a Fish Spatula: A fish spatula is a long, thin, and flexible spatula that makes it easy to flip the salmon without it falling apart.
13. Let the salmon rest: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juice to disperse throughout the fish, making it more flavorful and tender.

How about marinating before grilling?

Marinating salmon before grilling is a great way to add extra flavor to the fish. The marinade can help tenderize the salmon, add moisture, and add delicious flavors.

Many marinades can be used with salmon, including Asian-inspired marinades with soy sauce and ginger, citrus marinades with lemon and orange juice, and herb marinades with dill or rosemary.

To marinate salmon before grilling, place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover the salmon evenly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours to allow the flavors to develop.

When grilling marinated salmon, be careful not to overcook it as the sugar in the marinade can burn quickly. It’s also important to remove any remaining marinade and pat the salmon dry before grilling to prevent the salmon from flaring up on the grill.

Here’s a good marinade for grilled salmon.

📖 Recipe

How about grilling a whole salmon head on?

📖 Recipe

Some of my favorite cooking techniques